A Former Shannon Councillor is fearful the proposed introduction of maternity leave for local representatives is merely a ‘box ticking exercise’.
Cabinet yesterday approved legislation which would allow local authority members to appoint an individual as a temporary substitute to cover a period of maternity-related absence or illness.
Councillors on maternity leave could also avail of an administrative support allowance to help with the running of her office.
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One of Clare’s first female councillors, Patricia McCarthy, believes this will do little to encourage women to enter local politics, unless other issues like pay are addressed.
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